But seniors in particular may want to pay special attention to the adjustability scores, which reflect the ability to adjust handlebar height, seat height, and seat position. The six spin-style exercise bikes rated by CR did relatively well in our testing. People who aren’t experienced cyclists may want to consider a session with a personal trainer, who can help adjust a new bike to the right position, assess fitness levels, and recommend classes at an appropriate starting level. An uncomfortable or poorly fitting bike could deter workout motivation and cause pain or exacerbate physical problems, Rogers says. While it’s a good idea for everyone to try a bike before buying it, that may be especially true for seniors, says Bernie Dietrich, who oversees exercise bike testing at CR. ![]() Even if you’re getting a great cardio workout, incorporating strength and balance training into your routine is essential, Rogers says. Some of these bikes also come with attachments to store dumbbells or other equipment. Some exercise bikes come without a built-in system, which allows you to set up in front of your TV or a window, whatever your preference may be. ![]() Plus, joining a live class adds a social component to a workout, he says, similar to what you’d get joining a class. And the metrics can show you how you’re improving, which can also provide a motivational boost. The built-in classes can provide the motivation that helps inspire some people to keep exercising. These connected systems are appealing for several reasons, Rogers says. On these bikes, your performance metrics-like calories burned, speed, heart rate, and distance traveled-are stored, so you can track your progress over time. (See our top picks in exercise bikes.) One particular draw of these bikes is that many have built-in internet connectivity and come with a screen that allows you to join live or on-demand exercise classes. ![]() Routine exercise has been tied to improvements in blood pressure, joint mobility, body weight, cognitive acuity, and more, according to Rogers. One perk of bikes compared with treadmills is that even a high-intensity workout is still low-impact exercise, which may be preferable for seniors or anyone with joint pain or certain other health problems.Īnd the health benefits of regular workouts-like those you can do on an exercise bike-are substantial. “They go from the very beginning stages, for someone who has not been on a bike ever, all the way up to the more advanced classes that have high-intensity-type activities.” “One great advantage of these is the variety they offer,” he says. They can provide a flexible workout that’s accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, says Michael Rogers, PhD, a professor of human performance studies and the research director for the Center for Physical Activity and Aging at Wichita State University. If you’re looking to spruce up your home exercise routine with a machine that will help you get an excellent cardio workout, it’s hard to beat an exercise bike.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |